Winter in the Northwoods brings snow, freezing temperatures, and harsh windchills. While it’s easy to hunker down and stay at home, there are several fun things to do if you’re looking to get out and try something new. Let’s explore some activities to take advantage of this winter.

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

The Northwoods offers endless opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. Explore Bradley Park, Timm’s Hill, Treehaven and more in the city of Tomahawk. Another wonderful place to explore, Minocqua Winter Park, is one of the top cross-country ski areas in the country. On January 18th, you can participate in the Mid-Winter Candlelight Ski event at Minocqua Winter Park where you’ll follow candle-lit trails and can stop to enjoy campfires, hot chocolate, and sweet treats. See more event details here.

Downhill Skiing

If you enjoy hitting the slopes, there are two downhill ski areas near Tomahawk you should know about. Camp 10 Ski Area offers several runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Granite Peak Ski Area in Rib Mountain State Park has a large number of runs and terrain parks, plus several on-mountain dining options.

Ice Fishing

It’s not winter in the Northwoods without ice fishing on one of the many lakes. While many people ice fish as part of everyday life, there are also local events and competitions to experience throughout the winter months. On February 1st, you can participate in the Alice in Winterland ice fishing contest to win prize money, participate in raffles, and more. All children who attend will receive a prize, too. Learn more information about this event here.

Distillery Tour

Looking for something indoor fun, away from the snow and ice? Visit Northern Waters Distillery for a behind-the-scenes look at the craft distilling process. One-hour tours are available for $13-15 per person, and typically include a complimentary cocktail. Be sure to register online ahead of time to save your spot.

Cozy Coffee Shops

If warm drinks are more your style, there is no shortage of coffee shops in the Northwoods. Check out Cafe Sonder or Great Northern Coffee Traders for a cozy atmosphere. Milky Way Coffee Company is another fun place that has a drive-thru for grabbing coffee on the go. Looking for a fun place to meet up with friends? The Bottled Bean offers coffee as well as cocktails, making it a great place to hang out into the evening.

Winter in northern Wisconsin is truly one of a kind. From snowy adventures and outdoor recreation to cozy indoor activities, the season offers endless opportunities to explore and enjoy. If you’re ready to discover your own Northwoods getaway, our team is here to help you find the perfect property.